The Minister Of Communication And Information Immediately Gathers Cellular Operators To Discuss 5G Convexity In Indonesia

Illustration of the use of smartphones in daily life. (Unsplash-Angela Franklin)

JAKARTA - Minister of Communication and Information (Menkominfo) Budi Arie Setiadi said he was preparing a meeting with cellular operators to discuss related to incentives for the realization of 5G connectivity in Indonesia.

"We will prepare a meeting next week. It should actually be yesterday, but, it will be next week," said Budi at the Ministry of Communication and Information, Friday, October 27, which was confiscated by Antara.

Budi said discussions with cellular operators were needed so that the government as the party that would present regulations could get views and opinions from industry players. The discussion is expected to generate input that can accommodate the needs of the community, state needs, and the needs of the telecommunications industry.

"The important thing from this meeting is that we want to hear directly from them (cellular operators). Anyway, the important thing is that the policy later can support the Indonesian telecommunications industry to be healthy," said Budi.

When asked about the projection of a form of regulation to support the holding of 5G connectivity, whether it would be in the form of incentives from the tax side, Budi admitted that he could not confirm the form because it was still in the discussion and brewing stages.

In addition, according to him, the Ministry of Communication and Informatics also needs further coordination with the relevant Ministries and Institutions so that the incentives that will be given can be more appropriate for all parties.

Previously, on Thursday (28/9), the Ministry of Communication and Information revealed its plan to provide incentives for the implementation of 5G telecommunications network technology in Indonesia.

This incentive is expected to be a strategic step so that digital infrastructure in Indonesia can have an increase in connectivity that supports the vision of "Indonesia Digital 2045".

Minister of Communication and Information Budi Arie is optimistic that internet speed in Indonesia can continue to increase according to the needs of the community, in line with the development of digital technology.

"It takes a large investment, large funds and requires a great commitment to realizing digital infrastructure," he said.

As of September 2023, 49 cities in Indonesia have been equipped with 5G commercial services. 5G incentives are expected to increase the number of cities that feel the speed and reliability of 5G network services.